Healthy Kids Zone

Many people associate measles with its distinctive rash, but the illness actually begins days earlier with symptoms that look much like a severe cold. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , explains how to recognize the warning signs of measles, why the virus spreads so easily, and the serious complications it can cause in children and pregnant women. Learn what makes measles dangerous, how vaccination...

Measles is on every parent's radar right now, but the disease is just one of many childhood rashes that can look alarming. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , details the most common viral rashes in kids—from measles and chickenpox to scarlet fever, roseola, and hand, foot, and mouth disease—and explains when to call your child's pediatrician.

Choosing a baby formula does not come with a one-size-fits-all answer. Babies tolerate formulas differently—some thrive on standard milk-based options while others need sensitive, reflux-friendly, or specialized formulations. Pediatrian Cindy Gellner, MD , gives guidelines on how to spot what works best for your baby and why your pediatrician’s guidance can help you choose with confidence.

Young children get sick far more often than adults, and it is completely normal. Most healthy kids come down with about six viral illnesses a year—and preschoolers and early elementary-aged children can have even more, especially when school starts and germs spread quickly. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , breaks down why kids get sick so often, what parents can expect during peak illness seasons,...

Therapy is not a last resort—it is often the best first step for children with anxiety, mood changes, or behavior concerns. Pediatrian Cindy Gellner, MD , explains why early support matters, how therapy can work even when medications are not an option, and what families should expect from a realistic treatment plan. Get practical advice on screening, choosing therapy styles, navigating insurance,...

Ten minutes with your child's teacher can reveal more than grades—it can surface early signs of anxiety, attention issues, or social struggles. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , discusses how to prep and what to ask so you can spot learning delays, behavior red flags, and "mental milestones" like focus, frustration tolerance, and peer relationships. Learn how to review sleep, screens, and schoolwor...

Many parents link fevers, diarrhea, and even ear pulling to teething. But are those symptoms actually related? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, breaks down what teething does and does not cause, along with how to tell when your baby's fussiness might be connected to more than just new teeth.

Every baby teethes differently—some barely notice it, while others act like it is the end of the world. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , explains why the experience varies so widely and how parents can support their little ones through this phase. From timelines to treatment tips, learn what to expect and when to ask your pediatrician or dentist for help.

For decades, parents have blamed sugar for their children's wild energy—but research tells a different story. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , explains how placebo studies, parental expectations, and social cues contribute to the myth. She also shares smart strategies for managing sugar in your child's diet while promoting healthy habits.

From forgotten lunches to last-minute outfit debates, school mornings can be challenging. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , shares strategies to make them smoother, including setting up backpacks the night before, limiting screen time until after school, and sending kids off with a positive goodbye. These habits can help kids start the day on time and ready to learn.

Preparing for the new school year means a lot more than just buying school supplies. From medication forms and updated vaccines to vision checks and sleep routines, pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , shares a comprehensive checklist to help parents make sure their kids are physically and emotionally ready to return to the classroom. Learn how to take action now and prevent a last-minute scramble lat...

When your baby feels warm, it does not always mean they have a fever. A baby's age and how you take their temperature matter more than you think. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , explains why certain thermometers are more reliable than others, when to use rectal vs temporal scans, and how to interpret different readings depending on your child’s age.

Newborns cannot blow their noses, and they are not great at breathing through their mouths either—so even a little mucus can sound dramatic. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , shares what is normal when it comes to newborn sneezing and snorting, how to use saline and suction safely, and when to check in with your pediatrician.

Wondering about your newborn's pooping habits? Pediatrian Cindy Gellner, MD , demystifies what is normal—from frequent poops to the occasional blowout. Learn when to relax and when to worry about your baby’s digestive health. Discover the signs that indicate normal processes and those that might require a visit to the emergency room.

Is your infant vomiting or spitting up? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , breaks down the sometimes-confusing differences with practical advice and explains the mechanics behind each response. She also outlines clear signs of when spitting up might be symptomatic of something more serious like pathologic reflux or anatomical issues, guiding parents on how to respond effectively.

Newborns often do not have the perfect skin we expect. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , explains some of the common skin conditions that newborns face, including seborrhea—often referred to as cradle cap—and newborn acne. Both conditions are usually temporary and part of normal development. Learn what causes these conditions and why frequent bathing is not recommended for newborns.

Parents often ask about blood tests during routine pediatric visits, but pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , clarifies that healthy children rarely need them. She shares some of the criteria for screenings in young patients and how insurance factors into decision-making. Learn more about the focused approach pediatricians take to evaluate your child's health and why it may be different than adult scr...

New parents often wait for their baby to cry before feeding, but earlier signs can be spotted. Cindy Gellner, MD , pediatrician at University of Utah Health, discusses common signs of hunger in your baby, including rooting, hand sucking, and lip movements. Understanding these signals can help you more effectively address your baby’s needs and enhance feeding times.

Learn about the nurturing impact of skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, with insights from pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD . This gentle practice helps stabilize a baby’s vital signs and fosters deeper bonds between parent and child. Find out more about potential benefits, from enhancing premature babies' weight gain to improving sleep patterns and emotional connectivity.

Is your child often irritable or prone to temper outbursts? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , clarifies the distinctions between bipolar disorder and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis in childhood mood disorders. Learn about the characteristics of DMDD, how it differs from other mood disorders, and the therapeutic approaches that can sig...

Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is highly contagious and can be quite dangerous to infants and newborns. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , discusses how early immunization can keep your kids safe, along with the signs of whooping cough, when to seek timely treatment, and why it is crucial to stay up to date with vaccinations.

Seasonal changes can profoundly affect children's mental health, especially in winter as days become shorter and it gets too cold to play outside. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , explains how seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can impact children, causing significant changes in their mood and behavior. Learn the biological underpinnings of SAD, its effects on serotonin and melatonin levels, and va...

Traveling by airplane with children can be a daunting task. But with the right preparation, it does not have to be stressful. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , shares essential tips for making air travel with your little ones just a little bit easier. From choosing between lap seating and purchasing an extra seat to navigating airport layovers and handling in-flight needs, get expert advice to ensu...

Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) can be alarming for new parents—but does your child's tongue actually need to be clipped? Cindy Gellner, MD , addresses the myths and facts about a frenotomy, from the diagnosis of tongue-tie to the actual procedure. Learn how to assess if your baby really needs treatment and the factors that should influence your decision.

Is your child's screen time causing more tantrums? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , reveals how excessive digital exposure can lead to emotional challenges in kids. Discover strategies to mitigate anger issues and promote healthier emotional development without resorting to tablets and smartphones.